“The best hope and encouragement we have comes from the Lord who loves us unconditionally. I see my presence on the local Advisory Council as a reminder of that love and hope that empowers everyone to live life in all the fullness that the Lord intends.”
Pastor Glenn Zander, St. John Lutheran Church |
In cities and towns across the Northwest, volunteer advisory councils help guide and support the efforts of local LCS offices. Representing local congregations and partner organizations, as well as consumers and the broader public,
these councils are a key connection between LCS and the communities we serve. This connection has become especially strong recently in Yamhill County, Oregon.
Under the leadership of new Community Director Jordan Robinson, and with the help of local Lutheran pastor Glenn Zander, LCS’ Yamhill County (McMinnville) Office brought together church and community leaders this past year to help rebuild its Advisory Council. The Council members’ role includes promoting LCS’ mission in the community, recruiting volunteers, and encouraging support from local churches, organizations and businesses.
Equally important are the advice and guidance Council members provide in helping LCS identify and address key community needs. During a special strategic planning retreat this past summer, the Council identified five service priorities for LCS in Yamhill County:
- Increased services for parents of children 0-3 and expecting parents
- Mentoring programs for school-age children
- Affordable nutrition and weight counseling
- Maintaining violence intervention programs
- Expanded access to mental health services for the uninsured and underinsured
Yamhill County Advisory Council members. Front row (l-r): Erin Stephenson, First Federal Bank; Jordan Robinson, LCS Community Director; Lee Honore Means, Yamhill County Community Action Partnership. Back row: Rhonda Fabreth, Henderson House Domestic Violence Shelter; Silas Halloran-Steiner MSW, Yamhill County Community Corrections; Elise Hui, Housing Authority of Yamhill County; Pastor Glenn Zander, St. John Lutheran Church. |
Council members are enthusiastic cheerleaders for LCS, having seen the positive impact of the agency’s programs. “Lutheran Community Services is an essential partner in the fight against domestic violence in our community,” notes Council member Erin Stephenson. “Their violence prevention and treatment programs are a core piece of our local safety net for families, changing lives one person at a time.” LCS’ Yamhill County Advisory Council and staff are also excited about the recent move to new offices at 617 NE Davis Street in McMinnville, making services more accessible to local residents. |
